The Ramblings and Photos of a recycled teenager!!: The Gilmerton Coves

I never knew The Gilmerton Coves existed until I saw a news article on TV about it a few months ago, so decided that it should be put on my ‘to do’ list. You need to book in advance as spaces are limited to 12 on each tour, but the attraction is open seven days a week. It is wise to book though and not just turn up on the doorstep as if there are no tours booked for that particular day or time, you may find the doors closed. You are advised to wear sturdy footwear as the ground inside is uneven and to take a torch as well. One really good thing is that there are no minimum numbers so if you book, you are guaranteed that you will be able to visit on your chosen date and time. I think tours are scheduled on the hour every hour.

The attraction is on a busy main street with no car parking facilities, but we found a small car park behind some shops just around the corner.

I booked in advance for our party of four and when we arrived, we were told that it was just to be the four of us, but another few people arrived unexpectedly and joined us as there was room available. However, had we not been booked or had we been a large party, those people may well have been disappointed or have had to wait until our tour was finished, so it really is wise to book ahead. Hard hats are supplied to wear for health and safety reasons.

Our guide was a lovely girl called Lindsay who was very knowledgeable about the Coves and explained everything in detail, including what all the stories are concerning the Coves and how they were discovered. There are more questions than answers however, and I think that’s what makes the Coves so fascinating. Was it a coven used by witches? Was it used by the Covenanters? Was it just a drinking den? Did the Knights of St. John come here? Where do the tunnels lead to? How old is it? Is it haunted? The list goes on!! It makes you wonder just how many other hidden places there are underneath the streets of Edinburgh.

The tour lasts for around 45 minutes then you are allowed to have a wander around by yourselves and to take photos.

I found it really fascinating and would recommend that you put it on your ‘to do’ list as well. In fact, don’t just put it on your list – make sure you do visit!!

Here are some photos to whet your appetite!!